Brahms's Four Serious Songs, Op. 121, were among his last works and were composed around the time of Clara Schumann's death in May 1896, reflecting his preoccupation with death.
Critical Reception
Even Richard Wagner, who met Brahms in 1864, grudgingly praised Brahms's Handel Variations, acknowledging his skill in handling old forms.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Johannes Brahms, like his mentor Robert Schumann, believed in drawing inspiration from the 'old masters,' particularly Baroque composers, as a foundation for his own art.
Recording & Production
This album was recorded at Muziekgebouw, Amsterdam, between July 24-26, 2023, and features a Steinway Grand Piano, D-274, No. 597.208 (2014).
Compositional Technique
Brahms's Variations and Fugue on a theme by Handel, Op. 24, is based on an eight-bar Aria from Handel's B flat major Suite, HWV 434, and features 25 variations and a fugue.
Performer Biography
Pianist Samson Tsoy is known for expanding the borders of classical music with visionary site-specific programs in both conventional and unconventional venues.
Composer Biography
Brahms arranged Bach's Chaconne for solo violin for Clara Schumann, describing it as one of the most wonderful and incomprehensible pieces of music.
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